Abstract: A microfluidic device for manipulating microdroplets is provided. It includes (a) a microfluidic space defined at least in part by juxtaposition of opposed containing walls and (b) disposed on or within at least one of the containing walls optoelectrowetting electrode locations arranged in a pathway characterised in that in at least one direction substantially parallel to that of the pathway a region of the microfluidic space continuously varies or may be caused to continuously vary in depth; for example by tapering or cantilevering a resilient part of one of the walls. The device and its associated method of use are suitable components for nucleic acid sequencers and biomedical analytical devices.

Abstract: A device for manipulating microdroplets, the device comprising a microfluidic chip adapted to receive and manipulate microdroplets dispersed in carrier fluid flowing along pathways on a surface of the chip, wherein the microdroplets are manipulated using an optically-mediated electrowetting (oEWOD) force; characterised in that the surface of the chip comprises a coating structure configured to allow controlled attachment and/or detachment of adherent cells contained within the microdroplets by application of the oEWOD force.

Abstract: A microfluidic device for manipulating microdroplets is provided. It includes (a) a microfluidic space defined at least in part by juxtaposition of opposed containing walls and (b) disposed on or within at least one of the containing walls optoelectrowetting electrode locations arranged in a pathway characterised in that in at least one direction substantially parallel to that of the pathway a region of the microfluidic space continuously varies or may be caused to continuously vary in depth; for example by tapering or cantilevering a resilient part of one of the walls. The device and its associated method of use are suitable components for nucleic acid sequencers and biomedical analytical devices.